Featured Memorial | Gene Selznick

Gene Selznick Obituary

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Beach volleyball legend Gene Selznick has died after a lifetime in the sport, one of his sons said Monday. He was 82.

Selznick died Sunday at Kindred Hospital in Los Angeles after a series of health issues culminating in pneumonia, Dane Selznick told The Associated Press.

Gene Selznick began his career as beach volleyball first began to organize on the Southern California coast in the years after World War II. He soon became one of the dominating figures in the sport.

He also played indoor volleyball, played on the U.S. men's team and went on to coach U.S. teams, mostly women.

"In beach volleyball he was a pioneer," Dane Selznick said in a telephone interview. "He kind of set the pace for a lot of what today's players are enjoying — Olympic gold medals, lucrative paychecks. They've made a comfortable living. My dad never made any money on it. He's kind of like the old timers of other sports."

Selznick began playing at age 19 and he remained in the sport as a club coach as recently as a year and a half ago, his son said.

"He's touched a lot of people in this game," he said.

In addition to Dane, Gene Selznick is also survived by two other sons, Bob and Jack.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Beach volleyball legend Gene Selznick has died after a lifetime in the sport, one of his sons said Monday. He was 82.

Selznick died Sunday at Kindred Hospital in Los Angeles after a series of health issues culminating in pneumonia, Dane Selznick told The Associated Press.

Gene Selznick began his career as beach volleyball first began to organize on the Southern California coast in the years after World War II. He soon became one of the dominating figures in the sport.

He also played indoor volleyball, played on the U.S. men's team and went on to coach U.S. teams, mostly women.

"In beach volleyball he was a pioneer," Dane Selznick said in a telephone interview. "He kind of set the pace for a lot of what today's players are enjoying — Olympic gold medals, lucrative paychecks. They've made a comfortable living. My dad never made any money on it. He's kind of like the old timers of other sports."

Selznick began playing at age 19 and he remained in the sport as a club coach as recently as a year and a half ago, his son said.

"He's touched a lot of people in this game," he said.

In addition to Dane, Gene Selznick is also survived by two other sons, Bob and Jack.

Guest Book Highlights

"I just found out Gene passes away...A real loss for everyone..I was so lucky to have the honor or being friends with such a gentleman...He was so respectful of young or old.rich or poor .a way with his smile. Hand shake or hug to make me feel like..."- Dyan Harmell (Laguna woods, CA)

"Met Gene on the beach in Ft. Lauderdale in 1973. He cleaned up the beach game on the cities beaches. He was a joy to call a friend and was very well respected, even if none of us did know much of his background. He showed respect, and in return,..."- Carle Svitil (Bridgman, MI)

"I just found out a few days ago of Gene's passing. I'm so sad. Gene was such a good man. I worked for him back in the mid 80's at Gladstones 4 fish as a parking attendant. He was the coolest boss I've ever had or will ever have. I also knew his..."- Rick Barragan (marina del rey, CA)